Explore the rich biodiversity of the greatest river on earth, the Amazon, journeying downstream on freshwater that is up to 15 km wide in places.
Just imagine going on a morning boat ride skirting the edges of the river in search of cackling macaws and tree sloths slowly waking up to begin their days, then returning to your vessel with a chilled local fruit juice waiting for you. Or, how about swimming in a mirror-like lagoon that is so calm that it seems preface to a storm, yet instead, you’re greeted by rare pink river dolphins jumping up to say “hello,” then your guide offers you a warm towel after your dip? From time to time, there is the chance to get off your boat and explore the delicate ecosystem that constitutes the Amazon rainforest. Finally, what better way is there to close out your evening fishing for red-bellied piranhas during a fiery sunset than with a 3-course, individually-crafted gourmet meal made of ingredients sourced from the natural backyard that surrounds you? At night, you will sleep beneath a sea of glistening stars.
These and more more details are offered by the exceptional crew of the Delfins, whose operations have been painstakingly considered to cater to even the most discerning and seasoned explorers who seek styled, boutique experiences along with authenticity and charm. The Delfin vessels thrive in splendid harmony with nature and its spectacular surroundings. Guests will appreciate the “noncruise” atmosphere and the sense that you are on board to explore one of the world’s most intriguing and authentic environments.
This trip is inevitably for the active traveler who is to experience something truly out of the ordinary. Contact Us to help plan your truly extraordinary trip into the Peruvian Amazon.
‘At-a-Glance’ Illustrative Itinerary
DAY 1: Arrive to the Amazon city of Iquitos:
The Delfin crew will be expecting your arrival at the airport, then transfer all together in their comfortable private vehicle. You will start off with a lunchbox as you begin the journey to Nauta. Nauta is a small riverside town on the banks of the Marañon River and was the first city founded in the department of Loreto. On reaching Nauta, you will enjoy a VIP greeting at Delfin's private port along the shores of the Marañon River where your vessel for the next few days awaits you.
Aboard Delfin, you will be served by our qualified staff who will introduce you to your exquisite and cozy suite, specially equipped with orthopedic beds, pure cotton sheets, cotton bathrobes, air conditioning, and private bathroom with Spanish style hot water showers are all framed with a spacious private terrace.
Whilst the Delfin begins its initial navigation, you will enjoy the most fantastic panoramic views from the elegantly outfitted observation area located on our third deck whilst the bartender will be waiting to serve you with an exotic cocktail made with regional fruits and pisco, the beloved national brandy liquor of Peru. Then, your naturalist guide will give you an overview of your journey’s schedule, activities, route, highlights, wildlife and vegetation to keep your eye out for, geographical and historical background, and other useful details pertaining to your forthcoming cruise.
DAY 2:
Belluda Cano Creek:
Early in the morning, you will head for this spectacular tributary spot within the Pacaya Samiria Reserve in our skiffs where you will also experience an unforgettable encounter with gray and pink river dolphins. As well, the day’s birds will be out and active, flying gracefully across the Amazon skies.
Dorado River:
In the afternoon, wildlife will greet you and the biodiversity you will experience will be outstanding. You will have the chance to enjoy some of the myriad bird species, colorful, butterflies and other diverse insects, and noisy monkey troops, and when the night shift strikes, you’ll encounter a
whole new world of adventure. As the night approaches, your guide will take you on a night safari in search of alligators and night birds.
DAY 3:
Zapote River:
The morning is a perfect time for kayaking along the calm and inspiring rainforest waters. Guides will take you upstream; this will be a good chance to spot prehistoric looking iguanas that laze in the sun while we travel along the shoreline searching for whatever the jungle has to offer us. Squirrel monkeys are very active at this time of the day, when they move in large noisy troops at mid to upper levels of primary and secondary lowland forest. As you float and paddle down the river, see if you can spot some elusive creatures on your own!
Pacaya River:
This morning, you will have reached our main goal, the Pacaya River at the very heart of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, Peru’s largest protected area with a mean annual rainfall of nearly 3,000 millimeters, by far the largest protected wetland reserve in the world. Filled with lakes, palm swamps, and streams, the reserve becomes a flooded forest in the rainy season and is sure to be one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever visit. You will also have the chance to explore one of the pristine Amazon lagoons in this wonderful region!
DAY 4 :
Clavero Lake:
After breakfast, we will begin an exploration at Clavero Lake on board of our aluminum skiff, where you will have the chance to get deep into the rainforest and its fantastic diversity of flora and fauna.
Yarapa River / Puerto Miguel:
Next we will venture along the Yarapa River, where you can explore the tributary in the kayaks and listen closely for the sounds from within the mysterious jungle. Next we will venture out on board our skiffs where you will visit the community of Puerto Miguel to meet local villagers who have
called Amazonia their home for generations. You may step into a typical schoolhouse where the children will be very happy to have visitors, and then stop by an area to see the women of this community who have a most amazing arts & craft market.
DAY 5:
Disembarkation: It is with heavy hearts, that the staff will wish you farewell as you begin your departure. At the port of Nauta, the ground crew will be waiting to take you by our private vehicle back to the city of Iquitos, about 95 kilometers journey by paved road.
The Rescue & Rehabilitation Center of River Mammals (ACOBIA):
On the way from Nauta back to Iquitos airport, you will visit the Rescue & Rehabilitation Center of River Mammals (ACOBIA) where you will have the chance to meet baby manatees and learn about these wonderful and docile creatures and why they are on the endangered species list. As well, there are also some other animals cared for by the center that have been rescued from capture for the intention of being turned into pets and other threatening conditions. We welcome you to donate to this ambitious organization and education center as you wish. On arrival at the airport the ground team with meet with your passing and help you check-in for your flight to Lima.
